Why This Matters
North Carolina has faced more big storms, floods, and weather disasters in recent years. Hurricane Helene was a warning: we continue to not be ready for what’s coming. We can’t treat these disasters like rare surprises anymore. They are happening more often and getting stronger.
Thomas Monks has lived through hurricanes. He grew up in Florida and now lives in North Carolina. He knows how important it is to prepare ahead of time and make sure everyone knows what to do when a disaster strikes.
Here’s What I Plan To Do:
1. Create a Permanent Emergency Fund
We need to be ready before the storm. With the current Federal administrations plans to close FEMA, the states need to be prepared to shoulder the burden. Thomas wants the state to build into the budget a fund to help with emergency planning and supplies, to prepare in advance and mitigate any potential devastation. It should be a line item in the annual budget.
2. Set Statewide Safety Standards
Every city and county in North Carolina should follow basic safety rules. That means:
- Checking for flood risks, especially in light of recent record flooding.
- Testing shelters and emergency plans.
- Making sure warning systems work.
3. Improve Emergency Alerts
Everyone needs to get warnings, no matter where they live or what language they speak. Thomas will make sure alerts go out through:
- Text messages
- Phone calls
- Social media
- In multiple languages
4. Check Hospitals and Shelters Every Year
The state should conduct yearly check-ups to ensure that hospitals, emergency workers, public and private first responders, and shelters are adequately prepared and have sufficient supplies.
5. Build Strong Partnerships
Disasters need teamwork. Thomas wants to bring together groups like:
- Red Cross
- Habitat for Humanity
- Duke Energy
- Amazon
- Lowes
- Local hospitals
- ETC.
These groups should have plans in place to respond quickly when disaster strikes.
6. Teach the Public
If people don’t know what to do, it’s hard to stay safe. Thomas supports annual campaigns to teach people about safety, especially in schools, local community events, and churches.
7. Create a Year-Round Oversight Team
Instead of waiting for a disaster to make a plan, Thomas wants a group of lawmakers to keep track of readiness regularly.
Helping the People Who Need It Most
Disasters hurt low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities the most. Thomas will make sure the state:
- Identifies vulnerable areas.
- Sends help to those who need it first.
- Works with local nonprofits already helping those communities.
Stronger Buildings, Safer Homes
Thomas supports better building rules in high-risk areas. He wants homes and public buildings to be stronger and safer in storms.
Making Sure the Money Goes Where It Should
People deserve to know how their tax dollars are used. Thomas wants the state to:
- Share spending updates online.
- Track how well recovery programs are working.
- Publish reports after every major disaster.
Working with Businesses and Charities
The government can’t do it all. That’s why Thomas will work to set up real partnerships with private companies and nonprofits to make sure they’re ready to act fast and assists federal, state, and local officials when needed.
Bottom Line
Thomas Monks believes that keeping people safe starts before the storm. With smart planning, teamwork, and accountability, we can make North Carolina stronger, safer, and ready for anything.people. With a campaign rooted in action, creativity, and courage, Thomas is ready to lead a new kind of conversation about our future — one that starts with listening, and ends in lasting change.